Galatoire's

Galatoire's justifiably styles itself as "the grand dame of old-line New Orleans restaurants and has been a signature French Quarter destination for over a century. Four generations of family ownership have overseen the operations of this Bourbon Street restaurant, changing little over years, including the first-come-first-serve policy. Getting a table in the photogenic first floor dining room, with its tiled floors, mirrored walls, and brass fans, remains as difficult as it ever was; fortunately, reservations are accepted for tables in the upstairs spaces. Listen to the wait staff here—their recommendations are sure to be spot on. Failing that, must-tries include the Grand Goute (often called the "three way") appetizer, shrimp and grits, and banana bread pudding.